Remarks as prepared for delivery
I am thrilled to join in this enthusiastic welcome of Dr. Santa Ono as the 15th president of the University of Michigan.
Dr. Ono, you are joining a very special community. I have spent more than 50 years in higher education, and there is no environment that rivals the University of Michigan. From academics and research to health care, athletics and service to society, this university is dedicated to excellence.
“Leaders and best” is our way of life on all three campuses.
You soon will discover that Michigan is exhilarating, competitive, forward-thinking, and absolutely committed to the public good. You will be surrounded by thoughtful, creative and opinionated individuals at all levels. You will encounter robust and sometimes uncomfortable discussions, and that is a good thing, because they will lead to the best ideas and the strongest values.
My husband Ken and I want to welcome not only you, but also Wendy, Juliana and Sarah. I know that Juliana was just married, and you have a new son-in-law, David. When I was named president in 2002, our son Jonathan had just married, so I love this symmetry. As a family, you will find that Ann Arbor is an engaging place to live and the state of Michigan is an absolute treasure to explore and enjoy.
I want to thank the members of the Presidential Search Committee for their thoughtful, diligent work that led to today’s appointment. I know you devoted many, many hours to find such an exceptional candidate.
And I want to thank the regents for their support and counsel over these past several months. It has been an honor to again serve the University.
Dr. Ono, I look forward to working with you in the upcoming weeks. Once again, welcome to Michigan and Go Blue!
